The "Cane Train" project is dedicated to planting 5,000 native river cane, Arundinaria gigantea, plants by July 2025 to restore native habitats, improve water quality, and support local wildlife following Hurricane Helene. River cane is an optimal choice for stream and river beds due to its flood resistance, shade provision, stream stabilization, nutrient absorption capabilities, and ability to prevent the spread of invasive species like Japanese knotweed. Additionally, river cane creates critical habitats for endangered species such as the swamp rabbit, various migratory birds, and the river cane moth. The dense growth of river cane also supports a diverse insect population, providing a crucial food source for trout and other aquatic species. Overall, the project aims to enhance the ecological health of the region and support the recovery of local wildlife. River cane has been used for millennia by Cherokee people for virtually all aspects of life: baskets, blowguns, sleeping mats, in the walls of their homes, for storing food, etc. River cane brakes are now at ~2% of their historical range. 98% of where it was has been decimated. We hope to bring that percentage back up. Here is a document about propagating native river cane rhizomes. For ways to volunteer please click on this link.
